Lyoto Machida booked against Ryan Bader at UFC on FOX 4

Another major match-up has been added to UFC on FOX 4 in the form of Lyoto Machida vs. Ryan Bader, a fight pitting two competitors with drastically different styles against each other in a scrap sending the loser to the back of a fairly long line of contenders. Machida is known for his karate-based stand-up and underrated BJJ while Bader is an accomplished wrestler with one-punch knockout power in his fists.

Their bout was confirmed Monday night by UFC officials, making it the second announced outing for the August 4 card in as many days after the recent revealing of Brian Stann vs. Hector Lombard.

Machida is coming off a submission loss to Jon Jones, his third defeat in four previous pairings including a razor-thin decision to Quinton Jacksonand TKO to Mauricio Rua. However, the stumbles are the only three of Machida’s career with the Brazilian holding an overall record of 17-3 with past wins over the likes of Rua, Randy Couture, Thiago Silva, Tito Ortiz, and Rashad Evans.

Like Machida, the 14-2 Bader’s only in-ring blemishes came against men who have held UFC gold (Jones/Ortiz). Since his shocking loss to Ortiz last July he has racked up back-to-back victories with his most recent involving an outpointing of Jackson at UFC 144.

Tough fight for Bader. Machida needs to string 2 really impressive wins together and call out Jones for a rematch.

I remember Machida claiming he “Found the Path to Beat Jon Jones,” and after that successful first round I think there is a possibility that he could be the one to do it. Hopefully Hendo & the mauler soften up Jones a bit for the Dragon before he gets his shot again.

Machida’s my guy so I’m hoping he gets this. I think his elusiveness will give Bader trouble, and I don’t see Bader being able to take him down. Not to mention Bader does have history of gassing easily in the later rounds.